While most cruise lines load up every new ship with novelty to grab the headlines, Viking chases consistency. The line even refers to its fleet as sister ships. The idea is simple: make Viking guests feel at home, whichever ship they board. Know one ship, know them all.
Viking Sky, which launched in 2017 and can accommodate up to 930 guests, is no different and shares DNA with the other 14 ships in the fleet. This is no bad thing: the sophisticated yet relaxed vibe that Viking has carefully cultivated over the years runs through the ship.
The prominent feeling is one of serenity. Viking Sky never feels busy or crowded, thanks to clever use of furniture and room layouts. But don’t mistake peaceful for dull. From guest lectures and included excursions to live music and one of the best spas at sea, Viking Sky has all the cards to deliver a memorable holiday.
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Style & character 5/5
Considering the line’s name and the Nordic heritage of its founder, Torstein Hagen of Norway, it’s no surprise Viking’s ships embrace a Scandi-chic aesthetic.
Viking Sky’s interiors feel like a sophisticated Oslo boutique hotel. Think understated luxury, without an ounce of pomposity – contemporary, without erring on austere.
The colour palette leans on earthy tones, making tasteful use of cream, brown and grey, with pops of blue and red adding visual appeal.
Clever furniture arrangement and room design in the communal area mean that guests can easily find peaceful nooks to read a book and grab a drink, and lend an overall sense of peace.
Carefully curated artworks, library shelves and artefacts are on show throughout the ship, reinforcing a feeling of homely stylishness.
Cabins 4.5/5
Every cabin on Viking Sky, from entry level to the multi-room suites, has a veranda and sea view.
The Scandinavian aesthetic of the communal areas carries through to the cabins, with Viking – here again – striking the right balance between contemporary and homely, uncluttered and comfortable.
All cabins have king-size beds, floor-to-ceiling windows, 42-inch flatscreen TVs and spacious bathrooms with Freyja toiletries. There is under-bed suitcase storage, in addition to a roomy wardrobe.
Food & drink 4.5/5
While Viking Sky’s 930-guest capacity puts it in the small-ship category, there is nothing small about the onboard food offering. And since all dining venues are included in the base fare (apart from The Kitchen Table), guests can experience various cuisines without worrying about additional costs.
Restaurants range from the casual (the Pool Grill, World Café, Mamsen’s) to the gourmet (The Chef’s Table, Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant). The Restaurant is the ship’s main dining room, while Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant is always a firm favourite with many guests.
Mamsen’s, “mum’s” in Norwegian and created in honour of Torstein Hagen’s mother, was a personal highlight. The casual venue focuses on authentic Scandinavian dishes (think waffles and open sandwiches); it’s unpretentious and a perfect fit in the Viking selection of eateries.
Viking includes beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, with a selection of bars throughout the ship if you fancy a drink in between. For a nightcap, Torshavn – where you’ll find potent cocktails and live music – is the go-to.
Service & facilities 4/5
The Nordic Spa is a real highlight; it’s free for guests and puts to shame the facilities you find at some of London’s top five-star hotels.
The spa on Viking Sky offers a serene, Scandinavian-inspired escape at sea. Designed with clean lines and calming neutral tones, it features a hydrotherapy pool, hot tub, sauna and steam room, plus a snow grotto for an invigorating contrast.
Treatments include massages, facials and body wraps using premium products. The spa is a peaceful spot to unwind after excursions, with excellent therapists and a focus on wellness.
Other facilities include a fitness centre, a hair salon, a few shops, a sports deck and The Theater for lectures, film screenings and entertainment.
Throughout the ship, the crew is attentive and friendly, without being overbearing.
Entertainment & excursions 4/5
One of Viking’s big USP is the addition of an included excursion at every port. These are usually bus or walking tours of the area with a local guide. Other excursions can be purchased for a fee.
Viking also regularly runs shuttles or tenders to the destination, meaning people have a chance to explore independently. For example, during a recent overnight stop in Greenwich, London, a tender ran every 20 minutes until late, giving guests a chance to experience the local nightlife.
You won’t find all singing, all dancing entertainment on Viking Sky. Instead, expect tasteful live music at Torshavn, performing art from the regions visited by the ship, performances from classical and regional musicians and guest lectures from experts at the Star Theater.
Value for money 4.5/5
Pitted against its pair, delivers strong value for money. While not fully all-inclusive, the line includes drinks with meals, spa access, one excursion per port, Wi-Fi and dining at all but one restaurant in its fares. Add to this the fact that every cabin has a balcony, and you get a competitive package in the luxury category.
Viking also takes a stand against nickel and diming, making sure that guests never feel under any pressure to spend more than they wish onboard.
Facilities
- Spa
- Fitness centre
- Hair salon
- Shops
- Bars
- Restaurants
- Theatre
- Pools
- Sport court
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